Hamilton is at the heart of the Waikato, New Zealand's leading scientific and wealth-creating region and home to more than one-quarter of the country's export businesses and working scientists. The city is right next door to some of New Zealand's most popular tourist destinations including the surfing and swimming beach of Raglan, world renowned for its left-hand break. The University of Waikato is the closest university to the North Island's central snow-covered mountain ski areas. Hamilton has a population of approximately 120,000, an international airport, a relaxed lifestyle and a growing reputation as a major events centre. With more than 25,000 tertiary students, Hamilton is a true student city and one of New Zealand's fastest-growing urban centres.